MANCHESTER -- Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has insisted he has not changed his opinion that Luke Shaw is one of the best left-backs in the world.
Mourinho made the claim after Shaw impressed in a run of five straight starts in December and January.
But since, the 22-year-old has been in the starting XI for just four of United's last 12 games and was substituted at half-time during the 2-0 win over Brighton before the international break.
At a news conference on Friday, Mourinho was reminded of his high praise of Shaw to which he replied: "It's true."
However, the United manager went on to insist it was his job to make decisions for the good of his team.
"I am the coach," he added. "I make the changes I want to do. If I want to change the player in minute five, I change the player in minute five.
"If I want to change in minute 98, I change in minute 98.
"The moment when a new rule comes to football that forbids managers to do that then I become a pundit, not a manager. Nothing happened."
With Ashley Young a doubt for Swansea's visit to Old Trafford on Saturday, Mourinho confirmed Shaw will be in the 18-man squad for the game.
The 55-year-old's public criticism of Shaw has led to speculation the England defender could quit the club in the summer.
Mourinho, though, expects the former Southampton man to stay.
"I think so," he said.
"But I always say the door is open for everyone so no problem for him but I think so."